Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE

Waterton Lakes National Park

Discover the wonders of Waterton Lakes National Park, where the prairies meet the Rockies. From charming townsites and wildlife encounters to iconic trails and scenic adventures, explore Canada’s smallest Rocky Mountain park. Highlights include Bear Hump Trail, Cameron Falls, and stargazing in an International Dark Sky Park—a postcard-perfect destination for nature lovers.

Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!

What to do

Bear’s Hump Trail

A short but rewarding 2.8 km hike up Bear Mountain, named by the Blackfoot tribe, offering panoramic views of the Waterton Valley and prairies. Benches along the trail make it a great option for all hikers.

Trailhead: Across from Prince of Wales Hotel access road
Time: 1 hour
Cost: Free
Website: Bear’s Hump Trail

Cameron Falls

Waterton’s most iconic waterfall, cascading over billion-year-old Precambrian rock. Easily accessible with interpretive displays nearby.

Address: 312 Evergreen Ave, Waterton Park, AB
Hours: Open daily
Cost: Free
Website: Cameron Falls

Waterton Shoreline Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Upper Waterton Lake with breathtaking views and informative commentary about the park’s ecology and history.

Address: 101 Waterton Ave, Waterton Park, AB
Hours: Seasonal, check schedule
Cost: Adults $60 CAD, Youth $30 CAD
Website: Waterton Shoreline Cruise

Where to stay

The Bayshore Inn & Spa

This family-owned retreat sits on the shores of Waterton Lake, offering cozy accommodations and breathtaking views. The perfect base for your Waterton adventure.

Address: 111 Waterton Ave, Waterton Park, AB
Cost: Rates from $200 CAD per night
Website: Bayshore Inn & Spa

Prince of Wales Hotel

An iconic landmark overlooking Waterton Lake, this historic hotel blends vintage charm with modern comfort. Known for its picturesque location and renowned high tea service, it’s a destination in itself.

Address: Alberta 5, Waterton Park, AB
Cost: Rates from $250 CAD per night
Website: Prince of Wales Hotel

Townsite Campground

For a more adventurous experience, camp right in the heart of Waterton. This campground offers stunning views, modern facilities, and easy access to hiking trails and the townsite.

Address: Evergreen Ave, Waterton Park, AB
Cost: Rates from $34 CAD per night for a basic site
Website: Townsite Campground

Since this destination is a seasonal one, the availability of where to stay varies.

Check out the best accommodation deals below.

What to eat

Wieners of Waterton

Serving freshly grilled, locally-made sausages with gourmet toppings, this casual spot is a favorite for lunch or a quick bite.

Address: 301 Wind Flower Ave, Waterton Park, AB
Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM
Cost: Meals from $12 CAD
Website: Wieners of Waterton

Lakeside Chophouse & Wine Bar

Dine by the lake with views of Waterton’s rugged mountains. Known for gourmet dishes and exceptional service, it’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a family meal.

Address: 111 Waterton Ave, Waterton Park, AB
Hours: Lunch & Dinner, check schedule
Cost: Entrées from $25 CAD
Website: Lakeside Chophouse

Red Rock Trattoria

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Red Rock Trattoria offers a delectable menu featuring homemade pasta, gourmet pizzas, and an excellent selection of wines. It’s a delightful spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Address: 107 Windflower Ave, Waterton Park, AB
Hours: 5 PM – 9 PM
Cost: Entrées from $20 CAD
Website: Red Rock Trattoria

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Waterton Lakes National Park is from late spring to early fall (May to September).
Summer offers the best weather for hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing, with mild temperatures and long daylight hours.
For fewer crowds and vibrant fall foliage, consider visiting in September.
Winters are quiet but provide opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Getting Around
Waterton is a small, walkable townsite, making it easy to explore on foot.

For destinations beyond the town, renting a car is highly recommended to access trails, scenic drives, and attractions like Red Rock Canyon.

E-bikes are available for rent at Pat’s Waterton, offering a fun way to explore the park.

Note that public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not available in the area.

Safety Tips
Wildlife Encounters: Waterton is home to bears and other wildlife. Carry bear spray, make noise on trails, and store food securely.

Weather Preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Dress in layers, and always carry rain gear.

Trail Safety: Stick to marked trails and carry a map. Inform someone of your plans before heading out.

Driving Caution: Be alert for wildlife on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
Helpful Notes
Currency: The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Most establishments accept major credit cards, but having some cash on hand is recommended.

Park Pass: Entry requires a Parks Canada pass, which can be purchased online or at the park gate.

Cell Service: Cellular coverage is limited in some areas of the park. Plan accordingly.

Plug Type: Type A (two-pin) and Type B (three-pin, grounded)
Voltage: 120V
Frequency: 60Hz

Packing list

Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing.

Clothing

Layers for Variable Weather: Lightweight shirts, fleece or sweater, waterproof jacket
Comfortable Hiking Clothes: Quick-dry pants, moisture-wicking shirts
Cold Weather Gear (if visiting in winter or early spring): Insulated jacket, thermal base layers, gloves, and a beanie
Casual Wear: Comfortable outfits for dining or exploring the townsite
Swimsuit: For enjoying lakeside activities or a potential dip in the water
Sleepwear: Warm options if camping

Footwear

Hiking Boots: Sturdy and waterproof for trails like Bear’s Hump
Casual Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or sandals for walking around the town
Water Shoes: For activities like paddleboarding or exploring the shoreline

Gear & Accessories

Daypack: For carrying essentials during hikes and outings
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated on the trails
Sunglasses & Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the mountain sun
Bug Spray: Essential for outdoor activities during warmer months
Camera or Smartphone: Capture postcard-worthy views
Binoculars: For wildlife spotting or stargazing

Hiking Essentials

Trail Map or Guidebook: To navigate trails
Bear Spray: For safety on trails
Snacks/Energy Bars: Fuel for hikes
First Aid Kit: Including blister pads and basic supplies

Other Necessities

Travel Documents: Parks Canada pass, ID, and credit cards
Cash: Some small businesses may not accept cards
Plug Adapter (if needed): Type A/B, 120V, 60Hz

Optional Extras

E-bike Gear: If renting an e-bike, consider gloves and a small backpack
Swim Towel: For use after water activities or at Cameron Falls
Night Sky Viewing Items: Star chart, red-light flashlight

Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.

This episode of "Your Next Trip" explored the ancestral lands of

We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations. Research for this acknowledgment was made possible using the NativeLand.ca.

Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.

Visit the guide

Trip provided by: Waterton Tourism

Editor: Muhammad Arsalan

Special Thanks: Nicole Aune, Keith B. Robinson, President, Dark Sky Guides Ltd, Karen Pansacola

Waterton Lakes National Park

What to do

Where to stay

What to eat

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

Getting Around

Safety Tips

Helpful Notes

Packing list

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